Displaced people who once searched for a safe home are now shaping a new reality in government-controlled areas of Ukraine. This group of buyers is looking not just for square meters, but for comfort and stability. We continue to explore how this trend has influenced prices, demand, and market dynamics in cities and towns across the country.
In this interview, we discuss prices, sales activity, key buyer categories, and housing market trends in Rivne for 2026 with Alina Kirak, Head of the Rivne branch of the Union of Real Estate Specialists of Ukraine (SFNU).
– Ms. Alina, let’s start with an overview of the market. What is the current state of the secondary real estate market in Rivne?
– If we evaluate objectively, the secondary market today is the most predictable and understandable segment in the city.
Prices are stable, without sharp fluctuations. There are properties that stay on the market for a long time, and there are those that sell within a week — the difference lies in quality, location, and realistic pricing. Over the past year, we’ve seen that buyers have become more cautious but also more professional: people check the technical condition, review documents, compare with other offers, and ask about alternative heating sources and reserves.
So, emotional purchases are rare now — the market has shifted to rationality. Today, the average price for a quality one-bedroom apartment already exceeds the barrier of $35–38K (older housing stock) and $65–70K (new builds) if the apartment is “renovated and ready to move in.”
– And what about sales dynamics? Is there movement?
– Yes, and it’s quite healthy.
If we look at the overall volume of transactions, activity is mostly even. There are seasonal peaks (April–July, September–November), but no crises or collapses.
Apartments up to 60 m² are the most in demand. Three-bedroom units and larger spaces sell more slowly: the buyer needs either perfect condition or a significantly reduced price to agree to do renovations.
– Who is driving demand for secondary housing in the city today?
– There are three main categories:
- Young families who want to live separately. They account for about 40% of all purchases. Their preference — compact apartments, good infrastructure, autonomous heating.
- People returning from abroad and internally displaced persons (IDPs). They want comfortable housing immediately, so the secondary market is a good option.
- Investors. Rental investments have returned. The request is simple: “Housing that can be rented out tomorrow.”
– Have government programs influenced the market?
– Very much so. Especially the “eOselya” program. Thanks to affordable rates, many people who hesitated for years finally made the move. The program particularly revived the primary market — developers even create special offers for it.
– Now about the primary market. What’s the situation there?
– The primary market in Rivne is holding its position. Various complexes are being built — from budget to premium, and each has its buyer.
Prices depend on: stage of construction, technology (gas block/brick), insulation, finishing of common areas, landscaping, and availability of underground or surface parking.
The price range is very wide — from $800 to $1,400+ per m².
Demand is highest for one-bedroom units and comfortable two-bedroom layouts with proper ergonomics.
– Regarding suburban real estate: has it really become more popular?
– Yes, and this is one of the most visible trends.
Dachas suitable for winter living are especially in demand, as well as houses with stoves or fireplaces, homes where you can install a generator, and properties with their own water supply and autonomous systems.
We can say that blackouts have made people look at the suburban format differently.
Many want to have a second housing option — “just in case.”
The price range is very wide — from $15–35K for dachas to $50–150K for houses and cottages.
– Let’s move on to rentals. What’s the situation there?
– Rentals remain very active. The highest demand is for apartments: up to 50 m², in good condition, with autonomous heating, and fully furnished.
Rental timelines: 1 day — for top options; 3–7 days — for the mid-range segment; longer — if the price is inflated or the condition is “so-so.”
– Finally, what are the market prospects for Rivne in 2026?
– There are several important forecasts:
- The market will remain stable. There are no prerequisites for price drops. On the contrary, quality properties will become more expensive.
- Demand for autonomous housing will grow both in the city and outside.
- The primary market will develop, but not in quantity — in quality. Developers will compete on details — engineering, landscaping, and service.
- Rentals will remain very active. Relocations, business trips, internal migration — all this supports demand.
- Buyers will become even more demanding. Now no one buys “just anything” — and that’s good because it shapes a healthy market.
Overall, Rivne currently has a well-predictable market — without sharp fluctuations and with well-formed demand.